Abstract
Mast seeding, the variable and intermittent production of seeds, has
cascading effects on ecosystem functioning. This study explores its
influence on the brown bear populations in the Italian Alps, focusing on
beechnuts (Fagus sylvatica L.), the primary food source for bears in the
region. Using historical data and field sampling we estimated and mapped
the annual seed biomass from 2007 to 2021 for the province of Trento.
The energy content of beechnuts was assessed through high heating values
(HHV), providing the caloric resources available. Data on beechnuts
production, records of damages and GPS data from 16 Eurasian brown
bears, were integrated to perform a temporal and spatial analysis at
home range and at landscape level. Standardised damages to beehive and
livestock decreased during mast years, suggesting that bears met their
trophic needs through natural food sources. In fact, bears used more
agricultural areas and less beech forest during years of crop failure
then in mast years. At landscape level, agriculture and pasture areas,
close to beech forests and distant from cities showed higher risk of
damage providing a tool to anticipate management actions.. This work
provides insights on the ecological dynamics and conservation
implications of brown bear in the study area by mapping the spatial and
temporal aspects of mast seeding and bear related damages.